Driving for long periods can be tiring and cause pain in various parts of the body, especially the back, neck, and shoulders.
Poor driving posture can aggravate these pains and lead to more complex problems in the long run. In this article, we'll show you how to improve your driving posture to avoid these problems and keep your body healthy and comfortable while driving.
Signs that you need to improve your driving posture:
- Back, neck, or shoulder pain after driving
- Fatigue or drowsiness while driving
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or arms
- Difficulty maintaining a comfortable sitting position while driving
- Difficulty seeing the road or dashboard instruments
- Difficulty reaching the pedals or vehicle controls
If you experience any of these symptoms while driving, you may have poor posture. Here are some solutions to improve your driving posture:
Solutions to improve your posture while driving
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Adjust the seat: The seat should be adjusted so that your feet comfortably reach the pedals and your hands can reach the steering wheel without straining your shoulders. Adjust the seat forward or back to ensure your legs are slightly bent when your feet are on the pedals. The seat height should also be adjusted so you can clearly see the road and the instruments on the dashboard.
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Adjust the steering wheel: The steering wheel should be adjusted in height and reach so that your arms are slightly bent and your hands are in the "3:00 and 9:00" position on the steering wheel. This will help reduce shoulder and neck strain.
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Use seat cushions: If your seat isn't comfortable enough, consider using a seat cushion to provide more support and reduce pressure on your spine and buttocks. In our collection of ergonomic cushions, you can find some ideal car seat models, such as TheraPlus, TheraPosture, TheraPressure, and others.
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Use neck and back cushions: Neck and back cushions can help maintain a comfortable and healthy posture while driving. These cushions can provide head and neck support, reduce shoulder and back strain, and help prevent pain and injuries. Here's a list of the best back/posture cushions from TheraMart's ergonomic line that you can use while driving.
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Take regular breaks: Driving for long periods without breaks can increase fatigue and tension in the body. Take breaks every two hours to stretch your legs, walk around, and relax.
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Stretch: Stretching exercises can help reduce muscle tension and stiffness after driving for long periods of time. Some helpful exercises include shoulder stretches, neck stretches, and back stretches. These exercises can help improve posture and prevent long-term pain and injury.
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Wear comfortable clothing: Tight or restrictive clothing can hinder mobility and proper posture while driving. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to allow freedom of movement and improve comfort while driving.
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Maintain proper posture: Maintain proper posture while driving, keeping your back straight and your shoulders relaxed. Keep your hands in the "3:00 and 9:00" position on the steering wheel and avoid slouching forward.
Discomfort and pain while driving are not normal.
By adopting proper posture and making the necessary adjustments, you can enjoy a more comfortable and healthy ride. Don't get used to discomfort and pain; you deserve a better quality of life while driving. So, take the time to make the necessary changes and enjoy a more relaxing and comfortable ride!
